Northern Pike

While Bucyrus isn't exactly a Northern Pike hotspot, determined anglers can find them in the Sandusky River and the larger creeks within Crawford County. These predatory fish prefer cooler water and weedy areas, so target these spots, especially during the spring spawning season and again in the fall as temperatures drop. Look for areas where the river widens or slows, creating backwaters and submerged vegetation. A good starting point is the stretch of the Sandusky River north and south of Bucyrus. Public access is available at certain bridge crossings and near some of the parks, but scouting ahead is always a good idea. Pike in this region tend to be ambush predators, so large spinnerbaits, crankbaits, and swimbaits work well. Local anglers often have success with sucker minnows fished under a bobber. Pike numbers may be lower than in some other Ohio locations, so be prepared to put in some time to find them.